Bolivian trucks stranded at Chile‑Bolivia border as reduced hours and export controls disrupt trade

Since 1 July the Colchane‑Pisiga border complex on the Bolivia‑Chile frontier has operated only from 08:00 to 20:00, suspending night service for repairs. The reduced schedule and single‑lane processing have left more than 300 – 500 Bolivian trucks immobilised, creating queues over three kilometres long and waiting times of up to five days. Transporters report losses exceeding US$700 per vehicle and warn that the restrictions may breach the 1904 free‑transit treaty. Bolivia’s foreign ministry says diplomatic talks with Chile are under way and the limited‑hours regime will remain in force until 30 November.

Compounding the bottleneck, a Chilean criminal investigation that uncovered illicit substances in Bolivian timber shipments has triggered extraordinary customs controls on forest‑product exports. Export volumes fell 66 % in the second quarter of 2026, with more than 60 containers held at Arica Port and clearance delays of over 20 days. The Bolivian Forestry Chamber estimates losses above US$16 million and warns that more than 200 000 direct and indirect jobs are at risk.

Both issues underscore growing trade friction between the two neighbours and have prompted calls for a joint technical committee to streamline inspections while safeguarding legal commerce.